Kosovo fulfills all criterions for EU Visa-free travel: EC

The EU Commission has confirmed that Kosovo has now fulfilled all the criterions for EU Visa-free travel. It has thus fulfilled all parameters that had been outlined in the Roadmap for Visa Liberalization. The 2 outstanding requirements included the border demarcation agreement ratification with Montenegro. It also included improved track record in combating corruption and crime, as quoted by the EC Europa EU.

The Commission had proposed to the European Council and Parliament to approve EU Visa-free travel to the Kosovo people in May 2016. This was on the understanding that the 2 criterions would be fulfilled by the time of the adoption of the proposal. It has now asked the European Council and Parliament to move ahead with the proposal.

The dialogue for Visa liberalization was launched by the commission with Kosovo in 2012. Since then it has been regularly supervising the fulfillment of the requirements by the nation.

Border delineation:

This criterion was fulfilled by Kosovo Assembly with a positive vote on the border demarcation agreement ratification with Montenegro on March 21, 2018

Track record in combating organized corruption and crime:

It has been confirmed by the Commission that authorities in Kosovo have successfully fulfilled this final benchmark as well. They have established and empowered a steady track record of inquiry and final court hearings. This is with respect to organized corruption and crime.

The report by the Commission also confirms that Kosovo is on the track to fulfill other remaining benchmarks outlined in the roadmap for EU Visa-free travel. This includes reintegration and readmission, immigration and border management, and document security. Fundamental rights pertaining to freedom of movement and security and public order are also addressed, added the Commission.